Smoltz Signs NLI to Join Liberty Volleyball

Rachel Smoltz has signed a national letter of intent to attend Liberty starting in the 2012-13 academic year.

The Liberty volleyball team has announced that Rachel Smoltz has signed a national letter of intent to join the Lady Flames starting in the 2012-13 academic year.

Smoltz, a 5-11 outside hitter from Alpharetta, Ga., was a four-year varsity starter in both volleyball and soccer at King's Ridge Christian School. She holds her school's records with 1,094 career kills and 268 aces, and ranked second in the state with 416 kills in 2011.

"Rachel is an outside hitter/DS, so she can play multiple positions. She is very athletic, and is a competitive, hard-working person. She is a converted soccer player, and is really hungry to learn more of the game. Rachel buys into our vision here at Liberty. She will provide depth and help us compete day in and day out. We are excited about her coming to Liberty."

The daughter of John and Dyan Smoltz, she was named to the all-state team as a senior and was a two-time all-area honoree. Smoltz was voted her team's MVP twice in volleyball, and was an all-region selection in soccer. Her father, John, was an All-Star pitcher in the major leagues, most notably with the Atlanta Braves.

"Rachel Smoltz is an athlete, scholar and true Christian leader. A great player on the court, she also led as a team captain who helped foster a true sense of family on our volleyball team," King's Ridge head coach Chuck Faust said. "It has been both an honor and a privilege to be Rachel's volleyball coach. This fine young woman will be a wonderful asset for Liberty University."

Smoltz is active in her church, teaching a small group and involved in missions work. She plans to major in education and youth ministry at Liberty.